Introduction
Ale 8 Cake is a delightful dessert that combines the distinct flavors of Ale-8-One, a ginger and citrus-infused soft drink, with a classic cake recipe. This cake is cherished by those familiar with Ale-8-One, a beverage deeply rooted in Kentucky’s history. The soda imparts a subtle zing of ginger and citrus, elevating the cake’s flavor profile. Whether you’re a fan of Ale-8-One or simply love experimenting with new dessert recipes, Ale 8 Cake is a must-try for its unique taste and simplicity.
Time
Preparation Time: 25 minutes
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Total Time: Approximately 1 hour
Needed Equipment
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Large mixing bowl
- Medium mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Saucepan (2)
- Spatula or wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Toothpick (for testing doneness)
Tags
- #Dessert
- #Ale8Cake
- #UniqueFlavors
- #KentuckyInspired
- #EasyRecipe
Serving Size
Servings: 12-16 slices (depending on portion size)
Difficulty Level
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Allergen Information
- Contains: Dairy (butter, buttermilk), Eggs, Gluten (flour)
- Optional Garnish: Nuts, which may be allergenic for some individuals
Dietary Preference
- Vegetarian-Friendly
Course
Course: Dessert
Cuisine
Cuisine: American, Regional (Kentucky)
Ingredients
Cake Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 2 cups |
| Sugar | 1 ½ cups |
| Unsalted butter | ½ cup |
| Ale-8-One soda | 1 cup |
| Buttermilk | ½ cup |
| Large eggs | 2 |
| Baking soda | 1 tsp |
| Vanilla extract | 1 tsp |
Icing Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Unsalted butter | ½ cup |
| Ale-8-One soda | ¼ cup |
| Cocoa powder | ¼ cup |
| Powdered sugar | 1 lb |
| Vanilla extract | 1 tsp |
| Chopped nuts or shredded coconut (optional) | As needed |
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish thoroughly.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, mix together the flour and sugar until well combined.
- Heat Butter and Soda: In a saucepan, melt the butter and stir in the Ale-8-One soda. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
- Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients: Pour the hot soda mixture over the dry ingredients. Stir well until combined.
- Prepare Liquid Mix: In a separate bowl, whisk together buttermilk, eggs, baking soda, and vanilla extract.
- Create Batter: Gradually add the buttermilk mixture to the main batter. Mix until smooth and uniform.
- Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Prepare Icing: While the cake bakes, melt butter, Ale-8-One soda, and cocoa powder in a saucepan over medium heat. Bring to a boil.
- Mix Icing: Remove the saucepan from heat. Stir in powdered sugar and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth and glossy.
- Ice the Cake: Once the cake is done, remove it from the oven and immediately pour the warm icing over the hot cake.
- Garnish (Optional): Sprinkle chopped nuts or shredded coconut over the icing while it’s still warm.
- Cool and Serve: Let the cake cool completely before slicing and serving.
Preparation Tips
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Use room temperature butter and eggs for a smoother batter.
- Prevent Sticking: Grease the baking dish generously or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Icing Consistency: Adjust the amount of powdered sugar in the icing for your desired thickness.
Nutritional Information
Per Serving (Approximate, based on 16 servings)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 kcal |
| Total Fat | 14 g |
| Saturated Fat | 8 g |
| Cholesterol | 45 mg |
| Sodium | 210 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 48 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 1 g |
| Sugars | 35 g |
| Protein | 3 g |
Tips and Tricks
- Enhance Flavor: Add a teaspoon of ginger powder for a stronger ginger note.
- Presentation: Serve with a dollop of whipped cream for a fancy touch.
- Adaptations: Substitute Ale-8-One with another citrus soda if unavailable.
Add-ons
- Toppings: Chopped pecans, walnuts, or shredded coconut.
- Frosting Variants: Cream cheese frosting instead of cocoa icing for a tangy twist.
Side Dishes
- Pair with vanilla ice cream or fresh fruit for a complete dessert experience.
Improvements
- Reduce sugar for a less sweet version.
- Use whole wheat flour for added fiber.
Save and Store
- Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze individual slices in plastic wrap for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
FAQ
Can I use a different soda?
Yes, similar citrus-based sodas can work, though the unique Ale-8-One flavor may be altered.
How do I know the cake is done?
Insert a toothpick in the center; if it comes out clean, the cake is ready.
Can I make it gluten-free?
Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend.
Conclusion
Ale 8 Cake is a deliciously unique dessert that brings together the iconic Ale-8-One soda with a soft, moist cake. Perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or as a treat for yourself, this recipe is easy to follow and offers endless possibilities for customization. Its rich flavor and luscious icing make it a crowd-pleaser every time.
References
- Official Ale-8-One Website for Soda Information
- Traditional American Desserts: A Compilation of Regional Recipes
